top of page
Writer's pictureFiredup kc

Unreasonable Success: Dan Smith's Roadmap to Entrepreneurial Triumph in Kansas City

In the heart of Kansas City, a revolution in entrepreneurship is brewing, and at its center stands Dan Smith, the visionary co-founder of The Porter House KC. Featured in Season 2, Episode 13 of City Entrepreneur, Smith peels back the layers of what it truly means to be a successful entrepreneur in today's cutthroat business landscape.


"We wanted to create something that we would have wanted back in the day when we were first starting," Smith reflects, encapsulating the genesis of The Porter House KC. This isn't just another business incubator; it's a testament to Smith's commitment to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in others.


The Porter House KC focuses on entrepreneurs in their critical growth phase—six months to six years into their journey. "We had to make sure we delineate who we support and who we can refer to others. 6 months-6 years is our sweet spot, and we lean into that," Smith explains. This targeted approach allows them to provide tailored support where it's needed most.


Smith's philosophy on entrepreneurship is refreshingly candid. "First and foremost is being unreasonable," he asserts. "In order to be an entrepreneur, you have to be very unreasonable. That means that I have to be okay with getting 1,000 no’s before I get that one yes."


This unreasonable persistence is coupled with an unwavering commitment to consistency. "It's a simple word, but it's one of the hardest things to do," Smith admits. "If you stay consistent in an unreasonable way, you're going to find that success."


For Smith, entrepreneurship isn't about avoiding chaos—it's about managing it effectively. His secret? Collaboration. "The system to managing your chaos is collaboration. You're going to be strong in the areas that matter the most to you, but you have to be able to find people who complement you."


This approach to team-building isn't just about filling skill gaps; it's about creating a support system that can weather the storms of entrepreneurship. Smith emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who can excel in areas where you might falter.


Perhaps one of the most striking aspects of Smith's entrepreneurial philosophy is his approach to change. "To be human is to be terrified of change," he acknowledges. "I'm afraid of change, but it doesn't debilitate me or stop me."


This ability to confront and adapt to change head-on is, in Smith's view, non-negotiable for entrepreneurial success. "If you can't compartmentalize and deal with change as a part of the process, you will not find success.”


In a world where "code-switching" is often seen as a necessary evil, Smith takes a stand for authenticity. "I try to be the same wherever I go. Code switching in corporate America was the hardest thing I've done. I don't want to ever feel bad for where I'm from. I don't have to change who I am to assimilate to these other spaces."


This commitment to authenticity isn't just a personal choice—it's a powerful message to aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds. Smith's success proves that you don't have to conform to succeed; you can chart your own path and stay true to your roots.


At the core of Smith's approach to business is a focus on genuine connections. "Creating the line of non-transactional relationships matter way more than these transactional relationships," he insists. This philosophy underpins The Porter House KC's approach to community-building and mentorship.


By fostering these deep, meaningful relationships, Smith and his team are creating a network of support that goes beyond mere business transactions. It's about building a community of entrepreneurs who can lean on each other, learn from one another, and grow together.


As Dan Smith continues to guide The Porter House KC and inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, his message remains clear: success in entrepreneurship requires more than just a good idea. It demands unreasonable persistence, unwavering consistency, a willingness to embrace change, and the courage to be authentically yourself.


For those willing to heed Smith's advice and embrace the challenges of entrepreneurship head-on, the rewards can be transformative. As Kansas City's entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to flourish under the guidance of visionaries like Dan Smith, one thing is certain: the future of business is in good hands.


Fired Up Studios is a video production company based in Kansas City, Missouri, that specializes in igniting entrepreneurial stories and empowering community change through engaging video productions. Founded by Zik Nwanganga, the company is committed to capturing the essence of events, delivering captivating videography, and providing a premium podcast recording studio

experience.

0 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page